From the author of

From the author of

The word utility, historically used for such industries as
telecommunications, electricity, and gas, is becoming a common term in IT. Like
previous computing models over the past thirty years (such as mainframe,
client/server, object-oriented, and Internet), utility computing, a
much-talked-about new approach to IT operations, has emerged as one of the next
steps in the evolution of information technology (IT) for certain users and IT
departments.

Is Utility Computing Right for You?

Since early 2002, many vendors have articulated a vision: enabling utility
computing through software, hardware, and networks. They have laid out plans and
a roadmap for providing availability and performance of applications and
automation of IT operations. Early adopters understand that integration of a new
platform, protocol, or innovative concept into the technology mainstream
requires detailed planning, time, improvement, constant revision, and a
dedicated user base. Industry-wide acceptance also requires developers and
supporters who are pragmatic and realistic, and who understand at a sufficiently
deep level what steps must be taken to ensure ultimate success. Utility
computing is following this same evolutionary track.

Like other successful computing models, utility computing is attractive for
its simplicity, power, and cost reductions. The utility computing model is based
on a shift away from "technology for technology's sake" and a
shift toward aligning technology with business requirements. More importantly,
it should be away from proprietary approaches and toward interoperability and
cross-platform solutions.

While the various utility computing models provide substantial and major
benefits, utility computing is not right for every situation or IT department.
Utility computing can be a good fit when an organization:

Wants to optimize its IT assets and reduce costs

Has unpredictable and/or rapidly growing computing needs

Needs to scale IT usage both up and down

Experiences project-driven workloads

Often, a combination of traditional (purchasing and/or leasing) and utility
computing models coexist within data center operations. It pays to examine the
options and determine which models are right for your organization. There are
many utility models, and it's important to determine the best fit. IT
departments shouldn't be concerned if a decision is made to defer the
implementation of utility computing. Given time and growth, there may be an
opportunity to review utility computing again in the future.